Bruhat Stavanavali

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bruhat Stavanavali," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bruhat Stavanavali (बृहत् स्तवनावली) Author(s): Prachin Pustakoddhar Fund (as the publisher and sponsor) Publisher: Prachin Pustakoddhar Fund (प्राचीन पुस्तकोद्धार फंड) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/020135/1

Overview:

"Bruhat Stavanavali" is a collection of Jain devotional hymns (Stavans) and verses, compiled and published by the "Prachin Pustakoddhar Fund" (Ancient Book Restoration Fund). The text is presented as a valuable resource for Jain spiritual practice and study. The title itself, "Bruhat Stavanavali," translates to "Great Collection of Hymns," indicating a significant compilation of devotional literature.

Key Information and Content:

• Publication Details: The book was published by the Prachin Pustakoddhar Fund and printed at the Nirnaya Sagar Press in Bombay. The publication date is given as Vikram Samvat 1976 (circa 1919 CE). The publication was financially supported by Smt. Kamlabaipathni of Dhan sukhlal of Surat and Smt. Jadabai, widow of Tarachand Vikamsi of Jamnagar, based on the advice of Acharya Shri Jinakripachandrasuriji Maharaj.
• Purpose: The collection aims to preserve and disseminate various ancient and devotional hymns that are rich in spiritual content and easy to understand. These hymns are believed to impart knowledge and remove obstacles.
• Content Structure: The bulk of the provided text consists of a detailed index (Anukramanika - अनुक्रमणिका) of the hymns included in the "Bruhat Stavanavali." This index is extensive, listing numerous Stavans, their authors (Kartanunam - कर्तानुनाम), and the page numbers where they can be found. The hymns cover a wide range of topics within Jainism.
• Themes and Subjects of the Hymns: The index reveals a rich tapestry of Jain devotional and philosophical themes, including:
  • Praise of Tirthankaras and Jain Deities: Many hymns are dedicated to the praise of the 24 Tirthankaras (especially Rishabhnath, Mahavir, Parshvanath, and Shitalnath), and other revered figures like Gomateshwara, and Yaksha/Yakshinis.
  • Dharma and Principles: Numerous Stavans focus on core Jain principles such as Pancha-aachar (five conducts), Navatattva (nine realities), Samyak Darshan (right faith), and the path to liberation (Moksha Marg).
  • Samsara and Liberation: The cyclical nature of existence (Samsara) and the means to achieve liberation are frequently discussed.
  • Specific Devotional Practices: Hymns related to Chaitya Vandan (worship of temples and idols), Upadhan Tap (a specific austerity), festivals like Diwali and Paryushan, and the importance of purity in practices are present.
  • Stories and Teachings: The collection includes Stavans narrating stories of saints, disciples, and religious principles, likely drawn from Jain scriptures and traditions. Examples include the description of Samavsaran (the celestial assembly of Tirthankaras), life stories of Tirthankaras, and the significance of various Jain practices.
  • Philosophical Concepts: Discussions on the nature of the soul, karma, and the universe are implicitly or explicitly present in the hymns.
  • Authorship: The index highlights the contributions of many prominent Jain scholars and saints from various traditions and periods, including Upadhyay Dharmavardhan, Samaysundarji, Nadharmasinghji, Jinharsuriji, Jinachandrasuri, Kusal suriji, and many others. This indicates a compilation drawing from a broad spectrum of Jain literature.
• Language and Style: The hymns appear to be primarily in Prakrit (specifically Apabhramsha or Old Gujarati influences), as evident from the script and transliterated words used in the index and the initial pages. The "Prastavana" (preface) explicitly mentions the collection contains "ancient, well-known, and easily understandable stanzas" (सुगम प्राचीन याने जूने जूने बम बमे बहुत स्तवनोंका).
• Errata and Request: The preface includes a humble request to readers to kindly point out any errors or oversights (e.g., in letters, digits, or मात्राs) that might have occurred due to oversight, carelessness, or printing errors, asking for them to be corrected. This shows a commitment to accuracy in the text.
• Spiritual Significance: The text emphasizes the merit and spiritual benefit of reading, memorizing, and reciting these hymns for gaining pure knowledge and overcoming obstacles.

Key Figures Mentioned:

• Acharya Shri Jinakripachandrasuriji Maharaj: The spiritual guide whose teachings inspired the publication.
• Smt. Kamlabaipathni (of Dhan Sukh Lal), Surat & Smt. Jadabai (widow of Tarachand Vikamsi), Jamnagar: The patrons who provided financial support.
• Pandit Jaymuni: The disciple who compiled or authored parts of the work, mentioned as the disciple of Shriman Anandmuni ji.
• Numerous Jain Acharyas and scholars whose Stavans are included, as listed in the index.

In essence, the "Bruhat Stavanavali" is a significant compilation of Jain devotional poetry, acting as a spiritual guide and repository of knowledge, reflecting the rich tradition of Jain devotional literature and practices. The detailed index provided allows for an understanding of the vast scope of subjects covered within this important Jain text.